Six Months Self Employed

I was blow drying my hair last night and randomly thought about how I quit my job right before Labor Day last year. I checked my calendar and realized tomorrow is my 6 Month Self Employed Anniversary. (I made it up, just go with it.)

Six months really isn’t that long. I know I can’t expect the years to come to play out the same way. But I couldn’t be more grateful for how the past six months have gone.

I occasionally get e-mails asking “how I got started.” The truth is, I started my business with no intention or dream of making it my full-time job. I had my Etsy shop for four years before I pursued it full-time.

When I first started thinking about quitting my job I made a list of all my monthly expenses to get an idea of what I would need to make monthly just to cover my bills. (I made sure to add in an estimated health insurance cost too since that would be a new expense.) And you know what? The number freaked me out. I was like “That is ‘x’ cards per month!!!” So I took a step back, re-evaluated. I took my time and made sure I was prepared before jumping into things. (Honestly, I was probably over-responsible and over-practical about the decision.)

The past 6 months have not always been a walk in the park. I have definitely faced some challenges that come along with being a small business owner. But, it’s a learning experience. Each challenge helps me grow as a person and a business.

Despite the occasional set backs, I couldn’t feel more fortunate to have the opportunity to pursue what I love. I can’t wait to see what the next 6 months bring! xo JA